Two abandoned vessels found on the coasts of Cuba

Two abandoned vessels were found in Matanzas, Cuba; one with a name and number, the other with a Yamaha engine.

Cuban Border Guard VesselPhoto © Cubadebate

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The Cuban regime announced the discovery of two abandoned vessels in coastal areas of the Matanzas province and asked the owners to come forward to claim them within the next 30 calendar days.

The Port Authority of Cárdenas announced that the first vessel was found on December 21, 2024, in the area known as the Ships Canal, municipality of Martí.

"It is a white plastic-hulled boat, measuring 3 meters in length, 1.50 meters in width, and 0.40 meters in height. As an identifying detail, the name DABID DIEHEL is handwritten on the inside of one side along with the number 989-640-4107," he detailed.

The second vessel appeared on January 24, 2025, near the Sirenis Tropic Hotel, in the municipality of Cárdenas.

This boat features a red carbon fiber hull, measuring 2.90 meters in length, 1.29 meters in width, and 0.65 meters in height. It was equipped with a 9.9 Hp Yamaha outboard motor with two cylinders. No other identifiable data was visibly found, according to the report from the official media Cubadebate.

The Captaincy of the Port of Cárdenas specified that individuals or legal entities who believe they have rights to these vessels must appear at their office—located at Calle Céspedes Final, municipality of Cárdenas—within a period not exceeding 30 calendar days from the date of this publication, presenting documentation that proves ownership or possession of the found property.

This requirement is in accordance with the provisions of Article 214, paragraph c) of Decree No. 317, Regulations of Law No. 115 “On Maritime, River, and Lake Navigation” of the Republic of Cuba, it clarifies.

It is not unusual for vessels like these to be abandoned on Cuban shores, often after being used by smugglers, drug traffickers, or migrants operating in the region.

Authorities usually investigate the origin of these media and potential links to illegal activities in the area.

Frequently Asked Questions about Abandoned Vessels and the Situation in Cuba

What is known about the abandoned vessels found in Matanzas?

Two vessels were found abandoned on the shores of Matanzas, Cuba. One of them is a white plastic hull boat named "DABID DIEHEL" with a contact number. The other is a red carbon fiber boat with a Yamaha engine, but without any visible identifying information.

What is the procedure for claiming vessels found on Cuban shores?

Owners have 30 calendar days to claim the vessels. They must go to the Port Captaincy of Cárdenas with documentation proving ownership or possession, in accordance with Decree No. 317 of the Navigation Law of Cuba.

Why is it common to find abandoned vessels on the shores of Cuba?

Boats are often abandoned after being used by smugglers or migrants. This phenomenon is common in the region due to illicit activities and attempts to migrate to the United States, which often results in the abandonment of boats at sea.

What actions do the Cuban authorities take in response to the discovery of abandoned vessels?

Authorities are investigating the origin and possible links to illegal activities. Additionally, they are enforcing current regulations for the confiscation of vessels, working to ensure security and sovereignty in Cuban maritime territory.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.